IN THE NEWS

Designation Builds Support for The Miami Project to Cure Paralysis

September 1, 2015 – U.S. Senate Resolution 235, introduced by Florida Senators' Bill Nelson and Marco Rubio, designates September 2015 as “National Spinal Cord Injury Awareness Month”. This designation is especially timely given the significant progress being made toward a cure for spinal cord injury at The Miami Project to Cure Paralysis at the University of Miami Miller School of Medicine.

“We are incredibly grateful to Senator Rubio and the entire U.S. Senate for recognizing National Spinal Cord Injury Awareness Month,” stated Marc Buoniconti, President of The Miami Project to Cure Paralysis. “This designation goes a long way in generating more awareness and support for the cutting edge research that is leading us closer to a cure. Our innovative approaches, discoveries, clinical trials, and scientific breakthroughs are offering real hope that a cure for paralysis will be found soon.”

The resolution passed by the U.S. Senate states, in part “…every 48 minutes a person will become paralyzed, underscoring the urgent need to develop new neuroprotection, pharmacological, and regeneration treatments to reduce, prevent, and reverse paralysis…”. It continues, “…increased education and investment in research are key factors in improving outcomes for victims of spinal cord injuries, improving the quality of life of victims, and ultimately curing paralysis.”

“Over the years, spinal cord injury research has helped treat millions of patients, while helping prevent injuries for millions more through education and awareness. But more must be done with the goal of helping those who have been affected to walk again. I am honored to play my part in having the U.S. Senate recognize Spinal Cord Injury Awareness Month, and help boost efforts in support of this worthy cause," said Senator Rubio.

The resolution further states that the Senate, “continues to support research to find better treatments, therapies, and a cure for paralysis” and “supports clinical trials for new therapies that offer promise and hope to those persons living with paralysis”.

The designation of National Spinal Cord Injury Awareness Month will build awareness and even more support for The Miami Project and allow the quest for a cure for spinal cord injury to continue.

You can help us by doing the following:

1. Make a donation in honor of a loved one, caregiver, scientist or organization who is working to improve the life of those injured. If you would like to host a small fundraising party at your house, please email us and we will send you more information.

2. Go to your social media accounts and let people know that September is National SCI Awareness Month. Post a video about why finding a cure for paralysis is important to you. Share your video or link with us at mpdonate@miami.edu and we will post them on our Facebook page. Feel free to save these images and share with your friends.